Have sniffles and coughs become common in your home? Again, sudden changes in weather can be attributed to this. Frequent changes in weather can make children more susceptible to many diseases and viral infections.
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, DT Inshara Mahedvi, consultant-dietitian at Motherhood Hospital in Lullanagar, Pune, shared, “With the increasing seasonal changes, children are more vulnerable to various health complications. This increases their chances of falling ill again and again. This sudden transition can lead to fluctuations in humidity and temperature while increasing the risk of exposure to multiple allergens. This makes it easier for viruses and diseases to spread faster than usual. During this time, children may often find themselves battling seasonal illnesses like cough, fever, flu and infections.
He revealed, “This can cause discomfort making them frustrated, irritable and moody. Therefore, it becomes important to focus on meeting the daily nutritional targets of children to protect them from these seasonal changes. This can help strengthen their immune system which can act as a shield to fight these health complications. Parents should try to include foods that specifically contain immunity-boosting nutrients in their daily diet. This can help them prepare for sudden weather changes while keeping their children healthy and fit.
Immunity Boosting Nutrients for Children
1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: They contain anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce the severity of diseases and infections. Omega-3 fatty acids play an important role in improving brain health and supporting cognitive functions in your little ones. Parents should consider including food options like chia seeds, flax seeds, walnuts, beans, spinach and basil.
2. Vitamin C: This nutrient is important for the overall growth and development of children. Vitamin C can also help repair tissues and keep cells from becoming permanently damaged. It can also help improve their skin health as it increases the production of collagen. Eating foods that are good sources of vitamin C over time can boost the production of white blood cells (WBCs) that can help combat various infections. Vitamin C can be found in foods like oranges, lemons, strawberries, kiwi, broccoli and bell peppers.
3. Zinc: Try feeding your children a variety of dry fruits like almonds and cashews as they are rich in zinc. Foods like legumes, lentils and whole grains are also good choices for improving your zinc intake. This particular nutrient is important for the development and functioning of immune cells in children. Immune cells such as neutrophils and natural killer cells can help manage and fight a range of bacteria and viruses. It also promotes wound healing in them.
4. Antioxidant: Eating antioxidant-rich foods can help protect your body from excessive oxidative stress. This can have a negative effect on your child’s immune system. They can help reduce swelling and inflammation while supporting their overall physical health. This makes it easier for the body to fight various seasonal health complications. Antioxidants can be found in foods like spinach, sweet potatoes, carrots, potatoes, kiwi, blueberries and raspberries.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions you may have about a medical condition.
